BMW excels in sporty handling and driving dynamics with faster acceleration across most models, while Mercedes-Benz prioritizes luxury comfort, advanced infotainment technology, and a broader range of vehicle options. Mercedes typically commands higher pricing but offers more opulent interiors.
BMW vs Mercedes-Benz — Side-by-side comparison on A Versus B
German luxury automaker specializing in performance-oriented sedans, SUVs, and coupes
German luxury icon synonymous with prestige, comfort, and heritage spanning over 135 years of automotive excellence.
0-60 mph Performance (3-Series vs C-Class). Average Vehicle Price Range. Infotainment System. Vehicle Lineup Size. Average EPA Fuel Economy (Sedan). Warranty Coverage. Interior Material Quality Perception
Choose BMW if you prioritize responsive handling, better fuel efficiency, and lower entry pricing with engaging driving dynamics. Choose Mercedes-Benz if you value cutting-edge infotainment technology, maximum luxury appointments, a wider model selection, and are willing to pay a premium for prestige and comfort-focused engineering.
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): 64% | Mercedes-Benz: N/A
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): $2,850 | Mercedes-Benz: $950
Base Model Horsepower (3-series/IS Sedan)
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): 312 hp | Mercedes-Benz: N/A
Owner Satisfaction Score (Consumer Reports 2024)
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): 82% | Mercedes-Benz: N/A
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): 42% | Mercedes-Benz: N/A
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): iDrive 8 with gesture recognition | Mercedes-Benz: N/A
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): 68 dB | Mercedes-Benz: N/A
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): 35% | Mercedes-Benz: N/A
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): $42,100 | Mercedes-Benz: $45,400
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): 4.1 seconds | Mercedes-Benz: 4.9 seconds
Combined Fuel Economy (Sedan Base Model)
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): 26 MPG | Mercedes-Benz: 24 MPG
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): 12 models | Mercedes-Benz: 16 models
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): 3 years | Mercedes-Benz: 3 years
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): 10.25 inches | Mercedes-Benz: 11.9 inches
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): Aluminum trim, premium leather | Mercedes-Benz: Hand-stitched Nappa leather, ambient lighting
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): 382 hp | Mercedes-Benz: 402 hp
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 2.49 Million
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: $61 Billion
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 1926
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 29 mpg
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 540+ hp
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: New S-Class with enhanced tech
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 570+ lb-ft
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: Software-defined
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: GLC turbocharged refined
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: MB Tech Stack state-of-the-art
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: Comfort-oriented refinement
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: EQS 400/550 4MATIC models
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: Ultra-premium throughout
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 4 years standard
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 14+ models with EQS expansion
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: $56,000
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 4.6 seconds (C 43 AMG)
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 14.4 inches (S-Class)
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 64%
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: $6,500
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 55%
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 25 MPG combined (C-Class estimated)
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 255 hp (GLE 350 base)
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 255 hp (2.0L turbocharged)
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 12.6 cu.ft. (C-Class)
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 4yr/50k mi
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: Premium luxury pricing baseline
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 3,580 lbs (C-Class est.)
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 4 years / 50,000 miles
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: Varies (not standard)
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 50+ models globally
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: $41,900
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 827 (above industry avg)
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: $52,400
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 402 hp (M256 3.0L turbo)
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 30 combined
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 12.3-inch MBUX
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: Nappa leather and Alcantara throughout
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 3.2 (AMG C63)
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 350 miles
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 35 minutes
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 15,000+
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: $45,000
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 15+ models
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: Level 2/3 (Drive Pilot)
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: Nappa leather, wood, 64-color ambient lighting
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 1,400+ dealerships
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: $46,800
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 8.8/10
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 79/100
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 3.5s
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 8 models
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 138 years (est. 1886)
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 4 years/50k miles
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: $43,550
0-60 mph Acceleration (Performance Flagship)
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 3.6s (C63 AMG)
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 255 hp (C300)
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 2,141,000
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 24%
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 12 (C, E, S-Class, CLA, GLA, GLB, GLC, GLE, GLS, EQE, EQS, EQC)
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: $55,800 (C-Class)
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 61%
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 797
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: $58,300
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 5.5
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 26
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: MBUX Hyperscreen (9.5/10)
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 39.4
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: Optional (4MATIC)
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 80
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: $920
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 9.2
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: EQE, EQS, EQC (strong)
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 3.4 seconds (AMG GT 63 S)
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: $35,000
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 2,100,000
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 456 miles (EQS 580)
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 58%
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 32
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 8.2
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 10-12 years
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 81 PP100
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: $6,800
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 42%
Consumer Reports Reliability Rating (2024)
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 5.0 (Average)
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 9-speed automatic
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: $1,680 (mid-size luxury)
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 3 years / 36,000 miles
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: $57.7B
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: $75,000
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 3,200
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: $59,200
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 516 (S580)
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 84%
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 64 dB
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: $68,900
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 5.3 sec
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 149 mph (C-Class)
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 312 miles (EQS 450+)
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 84
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 4 years / 50k miles
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 12.6 cu ft (C-Class)
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 28%
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 82/100
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 4 years/50,000 miles
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: $850
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: ~761,000
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 100,000 km
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 3,500+
Customer Satisfaction Rating (J.D. Power 2024)
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: $47,200
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 99 years (founded 1926)
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 6+ EV models across segments
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 42% depreciation
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: $45,200
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: $680
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 89%
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 40,000+ (Drive Pilot)
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 25 mpg
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 255 hp (2.0L Turbo)
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: $47,500
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 255-621 hp
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 23 MPG combined
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 78/100
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: $3,800
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 7.0 inches
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 65%
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 125 years (founded 1901)
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: $65B
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: ~2,400
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: $48,000
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: $16.5B
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 11 models
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 12.8%
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 2.9 sec (AMG GT)
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: ~3,000
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 17.5 (EQS)
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 5+ (EQE, EQS, EQE SUV, EQC, EQA)
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: $55,000 (C-Class base, 2024)
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 12
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: MBUX with ChatGPT integration (2024+)
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: $65,000
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: $108,000 (S-Class)
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 768 PP100
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 8+ models
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 453 miles (EQS 580e)
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 150+ countries
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: $6,234
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 8.2%
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: $4,200
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 7.8%
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 7.4/10
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 8th
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 3yr/36k miles
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: $2,984
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 76
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 3.8
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 4/50,000
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 4.3 (C63 AMG)
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 4 of 11 lineup
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 4 years
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: $48,900
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 78
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 9 models (4 hybrid + 5 EV)
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 27 (GLE 450)
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 13
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: $45,650 (C 300)
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: $65,900 (GLE 350)
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 585 HP (AMG C 63)
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 453 miles (EQS 580 4MATIC)
Average Annual Maintenance Cost (Years 1-3)
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: $1,300
Interior Material Standard (Leather Type)
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: Nappa (standard on most trims)
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 2,400,000
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: $60.1B
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 8 EV models (EQE, EQS, EQC, EQA, EQE SUV, EQS SUV, EQG coming)
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 3,300
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: $43,250 (C-Class, 2024)
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 12+ (Compact, Sedan, SUV, Coupe, Cabriolet, AMG Performance, Maybach Ultra-Luxury, EV lines)
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 812
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 382 HP
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 24 MPG
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 11.9 inches
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 36.2 inches
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 139 years
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: $45,300
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 3.8 (C63)
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 4
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 11.9 (MBUX)
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 4 engines
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: $56,400
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 26 MPG
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 4.8 sec
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 88%
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 345 mi (EQS 580)
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works): N/A | Mercedes-Benz: 97
How to choose between BMW (Bavarian Motor Works) and Mercedes-Benz
Compare BMW (Bavarian Motor Works) vs Mercedes-Benz
BMW vs Mercedes-Benz — Structured Comparison Data
Machine-readable comparison dataset for BMW vs Mercedes-Benz. Contains 224 attribute comparisons, 5 FAQ pairs.
BMW vs Mercedes-Benz — Attribute Category Vocabulary
Taxonomy of attribute categories used to classify comparison data for BMW vs Mercedes-Benz.
Which brand holds its value better after 5 years?
BMW typically retains 48-52% of its original value after 5 years, while Mercedes-Benz retains 45-50%. BMW's better depreciation is attributed to stronger demand in the used luxury market and lower maintenance costs. Both brands are competitive, though specific models vary.
Is BMW or Mercedes more reliable long-term?
According to 2025 J.D. Power reliability ratings, BMW ranks 24th overall while Mercedes ranks 26th among all brands, placing them roughly equal. However, BMW owners report lower repair costs ($650 average per repair vs $780 for Mercedes). Extended warranty coverage is recommended for both after year 3.
Mercedes-Benz MBUX system edges ahead with AI voice assistant, larger screens (up to 11.9 inches), and AMG-specific Track Pace telemetry. BMW's iDrive 8 offers stronger customization and gaming integration. The choice depends on whether you prefer cutting-edge AI (Mercedes) or personalization (BMW).
BMW is engineered primarily for handling and performance with sport-tuned suspensions and faster acceleration across models. Mercedes prioritizes smooth, comfortable driving with emphasis on isolation and refinement. BMW owners seeking spirited driving will prefer BMW; those wanting smooth luxury prefer Mercedes.
What is the total cost of ownership difference?
Over 5 years, BMW typically costs $2,000-4,000 less than Mercedes due to lower service costs, better fuel economy, and slightly lower insurance premiums (2% on average). However, this varies by specific model, local parts availability, and individual driving patterns. Mercedes commands higher resale prices but with higher maintenance investments.
How to Choose Between BMW (Bavarian Motor Works) and Mercedes-Benz
Consider: 0-60 mph Performance (3-Series vs C-Class)
0-60 mph Performance (3-Series vs C-Class): BMW (Bavarian Motor Works) has 4.1 seconds (M440i), while Mercedes-Benz has 4.9 seconds (C43 AMG).
Average Vehicle Price Range: BMW (Bavarian Motor Works) has $42,000 - $110,000, while Mercedes-Benz has $45,000 - $125,000.
Infotainment System: BMW (Bavarian Motor Works) has iDrive 8 (customizable, gaming support), while Mercedes-Benz has MBUX (AI assistant, AMG Track Pace).
Vehicle Lineup Size: BMW (Bavarian Motor Works) has 12 model lines, while Mercedes-Benz has 16 model lines.
Consider: Average EPA Fuel Economy (Sedan)
Average EPA Fuel Economy (Sedan): BMW (Bavarian Motor Works) has 26 MPG combined (330i), while Mercedes-Benz has 24 MPG combined (C300).
Warranty Coverage: BMW (Bavarian Motor Works) has 3 years/36,000 miles standard, while Mercedes-Benz has 3 years/36,000 miles standard.
Consider: Interior Material Quality Perception
Interior Material Quality Perception: BMW (Bavarian Motor Works) has Premium leather, aluminum trim, while Mercedes-Benz has Nappa leather, hand-stitched details.